Overview

Granada, a charming colonial city, is truly a gem of Nicaragua. It's a place where time seems to stand still—horse-drawn carriages clip-clop along cobblestone streets, locals warmly engage with travelers, and shopping at the local markets remains a relaxed and pressure-free experience.

Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Nicaragua, Granada offers a captivating blend of activities and attractions. Known as one of Central America's most historically significant cities, it’s often called the "Great Sultan," a nod to its namesake in Moorish Spain. The city’s rich history is reflected in its stunning Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant, colorful houses, and majestic churches, all set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and breathtaking landscapes.

Things to See and Do

Stroll the Colonial cobblestone streets of Granada. Take a self-guided tour and roam the vibrant cobblestone streets - and thanks to its compact center, it is easy to explore on foot. The streets are well-kept, clean, and tidy, and you will find photogenic opportunities behind every corner. This is a place where you can traverse centuries just by turning a corner. From the bustling marketplace filled with local artisans’ crafts to the echoing bells of the ancient cathedrals, Granada is a feast to your senses. Climb the tower of the main cathedral to enjoy beautiful views, wander Calle la Calzada filled with restaurants and bars, and immerse yourself in Nicaraguan life at the market, it’s the perfect place to try local food. Walking tours of the historic center are a great way to learn more and discover spots that you may otherwise not have heard of.

Visit the Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral. The Cathedral of Granada, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is a landmark that dominates the city’s central plaza with its vibrant yellow façade and towering bell towers. It’s Granada’s most recognizable building. Inside, there is a beautiful simple white interior, accentuated by high arches and soft natural light. Climbing to the top of the bell tower is a must-do in Granada. It offers panoramic views of the city's colorful rooftops, the surrounding lakes, and even the distant Mombacho Volcano.

Swim in Apoyo Lagoon. Laguna de Apoyo is a big crater lake, nestled between volcanoes, where you can spend the day swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and just relaxing. This is a great place to combine a visit to the volcano afterward. The Apoyo Lagoon is located around 5 miles west of Granada, which you can get to within 20 minutes from the city center.

Discover Volcano Masaya. This is a must-do and a chance to see lava up close by looking right in the crater. You can choose to visit it in the day or night, but for obvious reasons, the night is more popular. There are trails around the crater offering different viewpoints of the volcano and surrounding landscapes.

Explore the nearby cities of Masaya. Masaya is home to one of the largest markets in Nicaragua. Wander the market of unique crafts, including masks, woven baskets, wooden toys, dolls, guitars, and more. This is a great place to try the traditional foods of Nicaragua such as rosquillas, cerdo con yuca, and chicharron.

Visit the Islets of Granada. The Granada Islets, located on Lake Nicaragua just about a mile off-shore from the city, are made up of hundreds of little islands and you can go via boat to visit them. Another option is to take a kayak from the “dock.” If you prefer to do a tour, then a sunset tour of the islets is a perfect option. Tours typically take a cruise of the lake, stops at the ‘Island of Monkeys’, and El Castillo Fortress.

Visit the Chocolate Museum. This is a must-do for all the chocolate lovers. You can visit the ChocoMuseo, take a chocolate workshop to learn about the history, and create your own masterpiece, or even take a trip to a cacao farm. Nicaragua is just one of nine countries worldwide that has been recognized as a 100% fine cocoa origin by the International Cocoa Organization.

Explore the Museums. The best way to learn about a new city is to explore the museums. Granada offers several to choose from, and they are all pretty small so they won’t take too long to visit. You’ve got a choice of Casa de los Tres Mundos, Mi Museo, and the San Francisco Convent. Each one offers something unique, and exhibitions often change throughout the year.

Nicaraguan Street Food

The Markets of Granada provide a great way to immerse yourself in Nicaraguan culture while supporting local businesses. In the Central Market in Granada, you’ll find countless vendors and an array of authentic local street foods. Try the messy, flavorful mix of vinegar cabbage slaw, chicharrones (or fried pork rinds), and yuca, all wrapped up in a banana leaf. The tortillas rellenos stuffed with rice and meat are also savory and filling. For a more unique offering try the pinol de iguana, a corn stew containing iguana meat, onions, and egg. You’ll also find spice and produce vendors, as well as those selling home goods, and clothing.

You don’t have to go to the Central Market to experience great street food in Granada, Nicaragua. Central Park offers a variety of options such as the vigorón, a popular local dish made with cassava, yucca, cabbage, and fried pork. Add some pickled chilies and wash it down with some coyolito, a refreshing drink similar to grape or cherry juice.

You may also find vendors selling traditional sweets like coyolito candies and candied papaya. Elsewhere there are vendors selling everything from gallo pinto to fried cheese to fresh plantain chips!